Keynote Speaker: Dr. Steven Layne

October 6, 2011 - Harre Union Ballroom

8:00 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.

Motivational speaker, Dr. Steven Layne, will address this year's theme, "Igniting a Passion for Reading". Steven Layne promises a workshop to delight, empower and motivate teachers interested in bridging the literacy gap. The entertainment options available to young people in our fast-paced society are ever on the increase. What are we, as educatos, doing to make reading books more appealing? Who's responsible for "keeping the reading lamp lit" for our young people today? Teachers of every content area and grade level can play a part. This workshop will offer practical ideas for every classroom that will keep kids reading and loving books.

Dr. Steven Layne was recently elected to serve on the IRA Board of Directors. Steve has been honored with numerous awards for his work as an educator and researcher. In 2001, he received one of the Milken Foundation's National Awards for Teaching excellence in the amount of $25,000. He was also named the 2001 All-Teacher Team by USA TODAY newspaper, the Edwin A Hoey Award Winner for U.S. Outstanding Teacher at the junior high level by NCTE and the 1999 Reading Teacher of the Year in Illinois. He has authored over twenty-one books including several award-winning titles for children and young adults. Titles include This Side of Paradise, Teacher's Night before Christmas, Share with Brother, Mergers and Igniting a Passion for Reading.

In response to the economic times the University will offer a special group rate; for every four paid registrations, a fifth teacher from the same school may attend for FREE. All five attendees must be registered at the same time to receive the discount. It is the mission of the University to continue to serve teachers in the region. Hope you are able to benefit from this year's discounted rate.